Background: This consultation sets out how standardisation and appeals will work for this year’s GCSE, AS and A level grades, following the cancellation of exams due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Summary: It is clear that the entire education system, including the examinations process, is currently in an exceptional situation. Therefore, Voice’s main focus at this time is the extent of the detriment caused to examination centres, senior leaders, teachers and learners. It is vital that learners are seen to be treated as fairly as possible, both within this year’s summer series but also in comparison to previous and future exam series.

The strictures under which the exam process has to operate this summer means that the circumstances are not at all ideal; however, it is vital that any negative effects on the life chances of this year’s exam cohorts are as minimal as possible.

We are confident that submitting a centre assessment grade together with a rank order (along with application of the standardised statistical model) is sufficient to ensure that a fair grade can be given, with the following caveats....